from the homeowners | When Dr. Saulat Mushtaq first saw 131 N. Spoede Road, she knew she had found something special. Situated on one acre, the Creve Coeur property was custom-built in 1993. “It’s a beautiful home constructed with love,” she says. “Before we purchased it, the original owner interviewed us. They wanted to make sure we could take care of the house.” Now, it’s her turn to find the home a new owner who will love it as much as her family has.
Tell me about the neighborhood.
It’s such a convenient location. You’re near all the highways, so it’s quick and easy to get downtown or out west to Chesterfield. You’re also close to great shops and restaurants on Olive Boulevard. The access to everything is amazing. The neighborhood has a small park, and you always see people out jogging or walking their dogs. It’s a very welcoming, friendly place.
What attracted you to the property?
It was custom-built, so it’s not a cookie-cutter house. It’s just beautiful with the high ceilings and big windows into the backyard. The floor plan also is convenient. I could entertain without worrying about my daughter in her bedroom. She could have her privacy without being disturbed. All the bedrooms have their own en suite, which is a great feature. My mother-in-law was living with us, and she could have her own suite and space.
Did you make any major changes to the house?
The house is wonderfully built, so it’s almost maintenance free. We only had to make cosmetic changes. When we bought it, the interior looked a little dated. I swapped out the brass fixtures, took down the wallpaper and put in new appliances. We also planned to add a media room in the basement. We didn’t finish the project, but the wiring is done if the new owners are interested.
What do you enjoy using the outdoor space for?
The backyard is a nice, secluded space. We could barbecue or enjoy bonfires in the evening. There’s a lot of space. One year, I started a vegetable patch. Gardening wasn’t for me, but the option is there if anyone is interested. The landscaping is attractive and low maintenance. The original owners planted perennials that suit the house beautifully.
How is the home for entertaining?
Entertaining was a breeze. The lower level opens out on the backyard, so the indoor and outdoor spaces flow together wonderfully. The kitchen is open, and guests can move easily between spaces. For my daughter’s graduation party, we had about 200 people in the backyard. The driveway fits around 14 cars, and the synagogue across the street would let us use their lot for extra parking.
from the agents
“The tall ceilings, arched openings, custom millwork, stylish light fixtures and bright, open spaces make this home look like it’s straight out of Architectural Digest.”
—Mark and Neil Gellman
Listing Price | Available upon request
Listing Agents | Mark & Neil Gellman
Agency | The Gellman Team, Coldwell Banker Premier Group Real Estate
Phone | 314.283.4363 | 314.336.1991
Photos: Tara McLain, Saint Louis Real Estate Photography